It’s the candy seasonbut don’t let your four-legged friends be fooled by fall foods that aren’t good for them.
Caring for an animal is more than walk the dog And veterinary checks – it is also important for pet owners to know which ones human foods are safe and toxic. Some of the biggest culprits this time of year include sugar-free gum, chocolate And raisin candy inside, says veterinarian Diana Watkinswhich has 143 veterinary services in Massachusetts.
Here’s what you need to know about pumpkin products and your pup.
Can dogs eat pumpkin seeds?
Don’t worry if your dog has gotten into your stash of pumpkin seeds: They’re not toxic, Watkins says. But that doesn’t mean they have to eat them either.
“(Dogs) don’t break down pumpkin seed shells very well,” Watkins says. “They usually pass through the gastrointestinal tract undigested.”
This means the seeds can cause stomach upset, constipation, or diarrhea if your dog eats too much, but in moderation this is not cause for concern.
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Are pumpkin seeds good for dogs?
Pumpkin seeds have no nutritional benefits for dogs, Watkins says.
There’s an old legend that pumpkin seeds act as a natural dewormer for parasitized dogs, but Watkins says that’s not the case.
“It doesn’t actually work,” Watkins says. “If your pet has worms…just go to the vet and get some dewormer.”
Is pumpkin good for dogs?
Pumpkin in its purest form is veterinarian backed. It’s a good source of fiber, so you can add a tablespoon of it to your dog’s food twice a day if he has digestive issues, Watkins recommends. It is also rarely an allergenso most dogs will tolerate it just fine.
“It’s a pretty simple thing that you can add to almost any dog’s diet if they have a little diarrhea, just to see if it helps bulk up the stools,” she says.
Just make sure it’s regular canned pumpkin – not pumpkin pie topping, which contains added sugar and other ingredients that may not be safe for dogs. Watkins also warns against giving your dogs whole pieces of pumpkin because it can take longer to break down and cause even more digestive problems.
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